Rent-to-rent
An arrangement where a company rents a property and sublets it.
2 min read · Updated 2 August 2026
Overview
In rent-to-rent the owner grants a tenancy or licence to a company which then sublets rooms, usually as an HMO, keeping the margin. The occupying arrangement is often licensable, and both the owner and the intermediate landlord can face licensing offences and rent repayment orders.
Legal requirements
- The rent-to-rent operator is usually the 'person having control' for licensing purposes, but owners can also be liable.
- Check lender and insurer consent before entering such an arrangement.
Practical guidance
- Get the arrangement documented properly and verify the licence is actually held.
This wiki entry is general information for UK landlords and letting agents, not legal advice. Rules differ across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland — check your local requirements or take advice before acting.